Being that you have created MANY, MANY effects that I consider to be workers (practical, strong magic) and most of the tricks I come up with are somewhat immpractical...What goes into the thought process of creating effect? Do you start with a move you like or do you think of an effect that you wish to be possible?

Hi Joe,

I don't think I've created any *effects*, but I've developed routines for myself that are based on other's routines and effects.

The practicality you refer comes from working a routine, using it, performing it, honing it. If I sit at home and come up with a take on a routine that appeals to me and then go perform it fifty times I will not end up with the same routine that I envisioned sitting at home. I don't want to get caught and I want people to have fun. So if, during the course of performing a routine early in its life I feel that there's a presentationally awkward moment that deadens the fun, or a spot where the misdirection wasn't as strong as it could have been, or a line didn't work, or a sleight I'm using is a bad fit, then I start to adjust those things. While I thought the routine was fine when I left home after developing and practicing it, it is through performance that I notice where the adjustments need to be made. After some set of performances of a routine and those adjustments to it(this may take a day or week or years), it eventually becomes, for me, what Mike Close wonderfully termed: a worker. I hope that speaks clearly to your practical vs. impractical statement.

Regarding whether the creative process starts with a move or an effect, well, either! And both! The Bilis Switch led me to create an effect. The drunken poker deal effect led me to create a routine. Just let your mind go and go...

Paul

Thanks, Paul...I'm learning a lot already from your visit!

Hi Paul,

OK, I have a silly question for ya. Have you ever come up with a presentation first (say by reading a book or simply watching T.V.)...then decided to build an effect around that? Can't wait to see you at Danny's bash in the fall!!!

Mike

I don't believe I ever have, Mike, but I do remember years ago watching a sitcom starring JJ Walker in which he did a mock card trick around which I've been trying to create a magical presentation for years and years. Perhaps I'll begin work on that again now that you've reminded me of it.

Paul

Dy-no-mite!

Paul

Sherman,

THAT'S the guy!

Paul